Abstract
Conditions under which it is possible to determine exact integrals for stiffness matrix entries for an eight-noded isoparametric plane strain element are investigated. Considerable use has been made of the algebraic manipulation language MAPLE in obtaining the results. For the eight-noded quadrilateral the determinant of the Jacobian is a complete cubic plus a single quartic term. Exact integration of the stiffness matrices can be performed when the determinant of the Jacobian becomes a single linear factor or a product of linear factors. Such decompositions can be related to the geometry of the element in some cases. If accurate stiffness entries are to be found, 3×3 rather than 2×2 Gauss integration rules should be used.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
